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With everything you've got on your plate every day, you need a shortcut for filling your plate come dinnertime. Starting with prepared meals can be a great strategy for those short on time, energy, creativity or all three.
But if prepared meals feel impersonal, unexciting or (gasp!) even bland, don't despair. With an open mind, you can transform a starter dinner into custom-made cuisine. In fact, there are several ways to elevate prepared meals into exciting suppers that are just as easy and convenient as ever.
Add protein
If prepared meals tend to leave you unsatisfied, you may just need to beef it up. According to Healthline, protein makes you feel full without having to eat as much food. Adding protein will give you an increased sense of satisfaction that lasts way past dinnertime.
Grilled chicken, fish or leftover steak are easy to add to any meal, why vegans and vegetarians might experiment with tofu, tempeh, beans or seitan.
Of course, choosing prepared meals that always include a healthy source of protein—like those from Beehive Meals—is an easy and convenient way to feel satisfied every time.
Spice it up
Adding spices can give a prepared meal a flavor boost. Whether you're a fan of Mexican, Indian or Chinese cuisine, spices can change a meal's entire character.
For a Mexican twist, add cumin, chili or cilantro.
For Indian, try turmeric, garam masala or coriander, while a dash of five-spice or a little ginger can give your meal an instant Asian vibe. Be sure to add spices sparingly at first—you can always add more, but it's difficult to reverse an overdose.
Consider adding fresh herbs for a quick and easy flavor upgrade. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over a spaghetti dish or add basil to a tomato-based meal for an instant Italian touch. Fresh mint or dill can bring Mediterranean or Middle Eastern nuances to your dish, while sage, rosemary and thyme create a harmonious blend that's perfect for poultry.
Remember, fresh herbs are usually added at the end of cooking to maintain their flavor and freshness. If you're not comfortable using the fresh stuff, check out Tasting Table's guide for cooking with herbs.
Add sides
Along with the main course, what do you want next to your meal? Maybe it's a green salad, a serving of seasonal veggies, or a bowl of berries.
Adding fresh, sautéed, or roasted vegetables to a prepared meal can not only make it more filling but also healthier – not mention it's a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge. For maximum satiety, opt for vegetables that really fill you up. According to Nutritious Life, artichokes, broccoli, peas, carrots and sweet potatoes lead the pack for keeping you fuller longer.
Pairing flavors together is what makes dinner time an adventure, so go out of your comfort zone once in a while. If you're out of veggies, opt for that jicama salad you've always wanted to try or whip up some seasoned quinoa.
Contrast with textures
Adding ingredients with different textures can enhance the eating experience of a prepared meal. Crunchy elements like toasted nuts, seeds or breadcrumbs can offer a contrast to soft, creamy dishes. Similarly, adding creamy elements like cheese or yogurt can perfectly balance a crunchy salad or vegetable dish.
Add some toppings
Fresh veggies or a sprinkle of cheese are always nice to add to your meals. But try something new once in a while; add peaches over chicken or maybe slices of mango to your sweet pork.
Experiment
You might be looking for a shortcut, but that doesn't mean you can't be creative. Feel free to experiment with prepared meals – especially those you serve on repeat. Mix and match ingredients, try out different sauces and spices and figure out what works best for your palate. Remember, the goal is to make every meal more enjoyable for you and your family – whether you start from scratch or get a little help from a prepared meal.
Taking your food from bland to grand is easier than you think, but if you're looking for delicious and nutritious meals that are sure to please your taste buds straight from the freezer, check out Beehive Meals. Made with real, fresh ingredients, these freezer meals take minutes to prep and are sure to please the entire family. To see their menu, visit the Beehive Meals website.
